Evaluation of Traffic Simulation Model Use in the Development of Corridor System Management Plans (CSMPs)

The California Transportation Commission (CTC) requires all major transportation corridors to have a Corridor System Management Plan (CSMP) in place for its governing agency to receive dedicated funds. CSMPs seek to improve corridor performance by assessing potential benefits of capital infrastructure projects, operational changes, and system management strategies. Corridor components are managed as a system rather than as independent elements. Analyses often consider the performance of parallel arterials and nearby roads and approach corridor problems from a multi-modal standpoint. Traffic simulators have been used for 31 of the 45 corridors to help assess the benefits of proposed improvement strategies. These evaluations have resulted in the development of more than 31 models. The benefits from the simulation models have generally been found to outweigh their significant development costs. Lessons learned from the modeling efforts will enable future evaluations to be completed in less time and with fewer resources. Specific positive experiences associated with the use of simulation models to support the CSMP evaluations include decision support and effective evaluation. It is strongly recommended that traffic simulation tools continue to be used to support CSMP operational evaluations. However, despite their promising concept, there is not yet enough evidence to provide a specific recommendation regarding the use of hybrid microscopic/mesoscopic models.

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Media Type: Digital/other
  • Edition: Final Report
  • Features: Appendices; Figures; References; Tables;
  • Pagination: 215p
  • Serial:

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01579273
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: UC Berkeley Transportation Library
  • Report/Paper Numbers: UCB-ITS-PRR-2012-2
  • Contract Numbers: 74A0484
  • Files: CALTRANS, TRIS, ATRI, STATEDOT
  • Created Date: Oct 23 2015 9:36AM